Thoracic Surgeon

Perform surgery on the heart, lungs and the surrounding area of the body.

What does a Thoracic Surgeon do?

Surgery is serious business. Gone are the days when patients were sliced open in a rudimentary attempt to see if there’s something to be done. Today’s Surgeons are able to gather detailed information and make a diagnosis before the scalpel ever enters the room. And with the advancements in technology, Surgeons are able to do more intricate work than ever before.

Thoracic Surgeons are a type of surgical specialist that has evolved from the realm of general surgery. Instead of having an in-depth understanding of every organ in the body, Thoracic Surgeons specialize in treating conditions within the chest cavity.

As a Thoracic Surgeon, you don’t dabble in knee surgery, assist in brain surgery, or unplug an obstructed bowel. Instead, you work on the heart, lungs, esophagus, and surrounding area. Because you’re so specialized in your work, you perform the same types of surgeries frequently. Common procedures include heart surgery, pacemaker insertion, or even a heart transplant.